Opedix CORE-Tec Shorts Review

With the cool weather and tacky trails, I find myself balancing time between trail running and mountain biking. When hitting the trails on two feet, I’ve been sporting the Opedix CORE-Tec Shorts.

Opedix CORE-Tec Short Features:

27-panel construction

90% nylon, 10% spandex

Durable stretch draw-cord at the waist

Silicon elastic binding at the leg-openings to keep the shorts properly anchored

Moisture wicking to pull sweat away from the skin’s surface

Breathable fabric to help regulate temperature to burn less energy

Anti-odor fiber technology to reduce odor and preserve freshness

MSRP: $145

Kinetic Health and the Opedix CORE-Tec Shorts

Several years back, I tested the Opedix S1 Pro Ski Tights and appreciated the additional knee support they provided. Since that time, Opedix has decided to simplify their product line with only two items: KNEE-Tec Tights and CORE-Tec Shorts. This simplification has allowed them to focus on the technology for a wider range of uses. After hearing lots of positives about the CORE-Tec Shorts, I’ve been able to use them extensively to find out first-hand just what makes these tick.

On the surface, the CORE-Tec Shorts look similar to a pair of bike shorts, but that’s where things end. Opedix uses a combination of stretch and non-stretch fabrics to provide the proper functional support. While I’ve used these exclusively for trail running, they are intended to be used in a wide variety of activities alone or under a pair of shorts or pants.

I received a size large and at 5’11” and 170 lbs, they seem to fit me well. I have a 33 in. waist, so I sit right in between sizes. I think the thighs and waist fit perfectly, but they could be a little more supportive in the crotch area. Most of my trail running has been with the shorts alone while most recently, I’ve been wearing them underneath my cold-weather friendly Cloudveil Journey Shorts. In both cases, the CORE-Tec’s wear well and offer noticeable support.

The tall waistband features a drawstring that has minimal stretch. As such, I found it easy to overtighten. As such, I’d recommend a slightly more elastic drawstring, like the one found on the Salomon Light Running Shorts.

Once on, the CORE-Tec’s really stay put and offer support and warmth. That warmth is great around this time of year, but a little much for 95-degree days. As far as the overall muscle and core body support, I will say that I noticed a difference while wearing these. I’d say I noticed it both while running and afterward. Post-run, I would feel less lower back tightness and have slightly less fatigue. I wouldn’t call it a dramatic difference, but I noticed it and have enjoyed wearing them more often than not these days.

The Good

Extra support you can feel

Reduces post-running muscle tightness

Comfortable, bunch-free performance

Can be worn alone or underneath unlined shorts

The Bad

Drawstring could be a little more elastic for comfort

The Bottom Line

Opedix CORE-Tec Shorts promote proper kinetic movement with improvements that can be felt. Is it a cure-all? No, but it does provide noticeable support during trail running while reducing fatigue and lower-back pain afterward.

About Author

A Seattle native, Jason developed a love for the outdoors and a thing for mountains. That infatuation continues as he founded this site in 1999 -- sharing his love of road biking, mountain biking, trail running and skiing. That passion is channeled into every article or gear review he writes. Utah's Wasatch Mountains are his playground.